Mandaric defends foreign policy

Perrin says Pompey priced out

Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric has hit back at critics of his foreign legion by claiming domestic players are too expensive.

Professional Footballers' Association chief executive Gordon Taylor led the criticism of Pompey's 19 nationalities.

Mandaric told Pompey's website: "My obligation first and foremost is to the football club and its supporters.

"Why should I pay £6m for a British striker from the division below us when there are better alternatives abroad?"

Pompey could become the first Premiership side to field a team of 11 different nationalities, prompting Taylor to say clubs should invest in homegrown talent.

If there are quality players abroad who can fit the bill is that my problem? Pompey chairman Milan Mandaric

But an unapologetic Mandaric said: "The pressure is on me and the club to get results next Saturday and the one after that, and that means we have to make decisions equally in the here and now.

"Mr Taylor was out of order berating the number of foreign players we have in our side.

"Look around the Premiership teams on a Saturday and tell me we were alone or even the most excessive in the use of foreign players.

"There are better alternatives abroad both as players and in value. It's not even pure economics. It's pure common sense.

"We're bringing on players like Matt Taylor, Richard Hughes, Jamie Ashdown, Richard Hughes and Gary O'Neil.

"But that has to be balanced with our situation now and if there are quality players abroad who can fit the bill for Pompey's purpose, then is that my problem?"